The lyrics to Sia's "Snowman" use the metaphor of a snowman to explore themes of fleeting love, vulnerability, and the desperation for connection in the face of impermanence. The "snowman" represents a lover who is fragile and destined to melt – a metaphor for the ephemeral nature of relationships or even just a feeling of being temporary.
Here's a breakdown of the possible thoughts and background behind the creation:
Ephemeral Love/Relationships: The central image of the melting snowman directly addresses the fear of losing a loved one or the ending of a relationship. The repeated refrain "Don't cry, snowman" expresses a plea to prevent the inevitable loss. The speaker acknowledges the limitations of their relationship – a "puddle of water can't hold me close" signifies the inability to maintain the connection as the relationship fades.
Vulnerability and Dependence: The lyrics reveal a significant dependence on the snowman/lover. Phrases like "Who'll catch your tears?", "Who'll carry me?", and "Who'll hear my secrets?" highlight the speaker's reliance on this person for emotional support and comfort. The vulnerability is amplified by the knowledge that the relationship is inherently unstable.
Escapism and Fantasy: The chorus offers a fantastical escape to the North Pole – a place of perpetual winter where they can evade the inevitable melting/separation. This reflects a desire to hold onto the relationship, even if it requires escaping reality. The "Mrs. Snow" declaration is a playful, almost childlike affirmation of commitment within this fantastical scenario.
Christmas Setting: The mention of Christmas adds another layer. Christmas is a time of joy and togetherness, but it's also temporary. The fleeting nature of the holiday mirrors the fragility of the relationship, creating a poignant contrast. The celebration intensifies the poignancy of impending loss.
Childlike Wonder and Innocence: The overall tone blends a sense of childlike wonder with a deeper underlying sadness. The playful repetition and simple language create a somewhat innocent feel, while the underlying themes of loss and impermanence provide a stark contrast. This juxtaposition adds to the emotional impact.
In short, "Snowman" is a song about the bittersweet nature of love and the struggle to accept its transience. The snowman acts as a powerful symbol of vulnerability, dependence, and the desperate attempt to cling to a relationship that's ultimately doomed. The song's strength lies in its ability to convey this complex emotional landscape through a seemingly simple and whimsical metaphor.